Pilot Currency Requirements
FAA pilot currency requirements depend on the privilege and operation involved. There is no single recent-experience test that answers every currency question.
Start with the operation
Consider aircraft category and class, passengers, day or night, visual or instrument operations and any additional qualification that may apply. Different parts of 14 CFR Part 61 address different recent-experience and review requirements.
Flight review
Section 61.56 contains the flight-review framework. FAA AC 61-98E provides current guidance for general aviation pilots and instructors. A flight review is not the same question as passenger or instrument recent experience.
Recent flight experience
Section 61.57 addresses several recent-flight-experience requirements. Details matter, including the operation, aircraft conditions, permitted devices, logging provisions and exceptions. Verify the current text.
Then consider proficiency
After legal questions are answered, consider whether skills relevant to the planned flight deserve additional practice. That is proficiency planning, not a substitute for regulatory compliance.
Practice Targets are personal reminders. They do not establish regulatory currency, proficiency, legal eligibility to fly, or compliance with a specific operating requirement.
Authoritative references
- FAA AC 61-98E — Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check
- FAA AC 61-91K — WINGS—Pilot Proficiency Program
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — 14 CFR Part 61
How to use a currency checklist
Work from the planned operation backward. Confirm privileges, passengers, day or night, VFR or IFR, aircraft category and class, and other qualifications relevant to the flight. Then verify each requirement against current authoritative records and rules.
Related resources
This page is a general reference. Verify current regulations, aircraft documentation and operating requirements applicable to your flight.